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Humans increasingly dominate Earth's natural freshwater ecosystems, but biomass production of modified ecosystems is rarely studied. We estimate potential fish total standing stock in USA reservoirs is 3.4 billion (B) kg, and approximate annual secondary production is 4.5 B kg y-1. We also observe varied and non-linear trends in reservoir fish biomass over time, thus previous assertions that reservoir fisheries decline over time are not universal. Reservoirs are globally relevant pools of freshwater fisheries, in part due to their immense limnetic footprint and spatial extent. This study further shows that reservoir ecosystems play major roles in food security and fisheries conservation. We encourage additional effort be expended to effectively manage reservoir environments for the good of humanity, biodiversity, and fish conservation.

Background: Flaxseeds are functional foods popular in current diets. Cold-pressing is a solvent-free method to extract flaxseed oil, resulting in a by-product—defatted flour. Objectives/Methods: This study compared whole flaxseeds and defatted flour (proximate composition, fatty acids, vitamin E, total phenolics and flavonoids, antioxidant activity, amino acids, and protein quality) and updated the composition of cold-pressed oil (oxidative stability, peroxide value, UV absorbance, colour, fatty acids, vitamin E, total phenolics and flavonoids, and antioxidant activity) to assess the nutritional relevance and potential for food applications of these samples. Results: The flour had higher ash (6% vs. 4%), fibre (36% vs. 34%), protein (28% vs. 16%), phenolics (205 vs. 143 mg gallic acid equivalents/100 g), and antioxidant activity than seeds (p < 0.05), so it should be valued as a novel high-fibre food ingredient with high-quality plant-based protein, as it contains all essential amino acids (106 mg/g) and a high essential amino acids index (112%), with L-tryptophan as the limiting amino acid. The oil, while low in oxidative stability (1.3 h), due to its high polyunsaturated fatty acids sum (75%), mostly α-linolenic acid (57%), contains a significant amount of vitamin E (444 mg/kg), making it a specialty oil best consumed raw. Conclusions: The exploration of the flour as a minimally processed food ingredient highlights its role in supporting food security, circular economy, and sustainability goals, aligning with consumer preferences for natural, low-fat foods. Future research should investigate the bioactivity and shelf-life of the samples, as well as the bioavailability of compounds after digestion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aquaculture industry is growing rapidly and plays a huge role in bridging the global demand gap for fish and other aquatic foods. It is a vital contributor of valuable nutrients and economic benefits. Aquaculture and fisheries provide a means of livelihood to an estimated 58.5 million people globally, according to the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organisation. However, the sector is impacted by the ubiquity of microplastics and toxic chemicals. Although many studies have reported plastic pollution in the aquaculture environment, less attention has been paid to the coexistence of toxic chemicals with plastic particles and the role of climate change in aquaculture food contamination. This review evaluates the occurrence of microplastics in organisms, feeds, water, and sediment in the aquaculture ecosystem and the detection and hazardous effects of toxic chemical contaminants. We also highlight novel insights into the role of climate change in plastic and chemical contamination of aquaculture organisms and ecosystems. We report that the extent of aquaculture's contribution to global climate change and global plastic pollution is yet to be adequately quantified and requires further investigation for appropriate risk assessment and prevention of food safety crisis. Possible mitigation strategies for the highlighted pollution problems were suggested, and some identified gaps for future research were indicated. Overall, this work is one of the first efforts to assess the influence of climate change on aquaculture food contamination, emphasising its effects on food safety and ecosystem health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

1. This study evaluated the efficacy of maize differing in particle size in low-density protein diets on performance, the digestive tract and litter characteristics in broilers. Four dietary treatments; control commercial diet with a typical crude protein content 22.50% (CON); CON + 20% maize with particle size 350 µm (M350), crude protein 19.90%; CON + 20% maize with particle size 2600 µm (M2600), crude protein 19.90%; CON + 20% whole maize (WM), crude protein 19.90%, were fed ad libitum to broiler chicks up to 21 d of age. 2. No differences in body weight gain, feed intake and FCR were found between the WM and CON. WM increased body weight gain compared to M350 and M2600. M350, M2600 and WM increased (p = 0.004) gizzard relative weight compared with CON on day 14. Both WM and M2600 reduced (p = 0.001) gastric isthmus diameter on d 14 and 21 compared with CON and M350. 3. No differences were seen in mucosa for the Lamina propria and the extent of Tunica muscularis of gizzard on d 21 and ileum mucosal depth on d 14 between WM and CON diets. However, WM reduced villus-to-crypt ratio compared with CON on d 21. The M350 reduced (p < 0.05) gizzard digesta particle size compared with CON, M2600 and WM on d 14. 4. Both WM and M350 decreased (p < 0.05) nitrogen excretion compared to birds fed CON. Feeding WM increased nitrogen efficiency compared with M350 and M2600 diets, but was similar to birds fed CON. Feeding M350, M2600 or WM decreased (p < 0.05) litter moisture and footpad dermatitis (FPD) scores compared with results from birds fed CON. 5. Overall, diluting the protein level in broiler diets with whole maize appeared better than fine or coarse maize in terms of growth performance, digestive tract development, nitrogen excretion and litter parameters. This may lead to economic benefits by reducing grinding costs and dependence on rich protein resources contributing to sustainable meat production and food security. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This document emphasizes the importance of including fungi in wildlife trade research and policy. Fungi play a vital role in ecosystem functions and provide medicines and food globally. However, fungi have been neglected in research, leaving species vulnerable to exploitation. The document proposes a research agenda to improve the conservation status of traded species, including studying the ecological impacts of fungi harvesting, exploring the potential of wild fungi for food security, and addressing the impacts of illegal trade. It also highlights the need for local collaboration, initiatives to reduce wild harvesting, and integrating fungi into conservation policies. Overall, the document stresses the urgent need to protect biodiversity and the communities that depend on fungi. [Extracted from the article]

The aim of this research is to examine what antecedents of supply chain financing (SCF) should be overcome to ensure that the agricultural supply chain from preplanting to postharvesting generates enough food to achieve sustainable food security in developing countries. Drawing from complex adaptive systems (CAS) theory, we develop and test a model of how a prospective and challenging financing scheme navigates complex social and repayment systems to achieve sustainable SCF. The results of the study show that a challenging financing scheme must navigate complex social and repayment systems to achieve sustainable SCF, while a prospective financing scheme even though it shows a positive influence on sustainable SCF, its effect is higher when it is able to navigate these. The study hence concludes that for agricultural SCF schemes to lead to sustainable food security, they must be accessible and appropriate to the needs of the community, overcome default risk and cumbersome financial arrangements and be able to navigate the complex social and repayment systems. The study recommends that financing schemes should establish proximity to farming communities and engage farmers to determine appropriate funds for different stages among others. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The UN's Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 12 seeks to achieve sustainable food production and consumption, including reduced food loss and waste; SDG 2 proposes the goal of zero hunger. In pursuit of these goals, technology arguably has a central role, at every level of the food value chain. To establish this role, the authors identify and examine current technologies aimed at increasing food production and suitably redistributing unused food, as tactics to combat food loss and waste, with the shared end goal of reducing food insecurity. A proposed 2 × 2 typology illustrates how existing technologies can influence food production, distribution, and consumption, as well as influence the stakeholders in the food production–consumption chain. These insights also inform a research and development agenda pertaining to the need for technology applications that can increase food production and/or reduce food waste effectively enough to achieve the goal of zero hunger. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Food waste due to consumer rejection of aesthetically imperfect produce poses significant challenges to food security and environmental sustainability. We construct a matching model between the marketing message framing of ugly produce and the controllability attributions of ugly appearance to drive consumers' purchase intentions. Through theoretical deduction and randomized scenario experiments, we validate this model by demonstrating that consumers' purchase intentions increase when the gain-framed (vs. loss-framed) messages for marketing ugly produce match with the highlevel (vs. low-level) controllability attributions of ugly appearance. In addition, we introduce the concept of consumers' perceived information processing fluency as a mediator in this relationship. The findings provide actionable insights for produce retailers, suggesting that effective and cost-efficient marketing strategies could reduce food waste and its associated environmental impacts by driving consumers' purchasing intentions to ugly produce, contributing to the achievement of Sustainable Development Goal 2 (SDG 2) and promoting sustainable food systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The food industry is encouraged to develop new sustainable foodstuffs, and agri-food by-products can serve as valuable ingredients in these formulations. In this work, olive pomace (OP), a by-product of olive oil production, was incorporated as an ingredient in pasta. The changes in the nutritional composition and consumer acceptance were assessed, aiming to scale up the production. OP contains dietary fibre (55%), fat (9%), α-tocopherol (43 mg/kg), and oleic acid (76%) after moisture elimination. For that, the following two drying procedures were tested: 40 °C for 48 h (OP40) and 70 °C for 24 h (OP70). Both samples were sieved to remove the stone pieces. Drying at 70 °C (OP70) was the fastest method, revealed a better nutritional profile than OP40, and was the product selected for the incorporation into the pasta. The enriched pasta, containing 7.5% of OP70, was compared to a control. It showed an improved nutritional value with higher contents of fat, ash, fibre, vitamin E, oleic acid, phenolics, and flavonoids, a composition related to potential health benefits. Consumers appreciated the appearance, colour, shine, and aroma of the obtained pasta, making it a prototype with commercial viability. However, several improvements need to be implemented, namely, at the textural levels. Corrective actions, such as the optimisation of the amount of incorporated OP, the use of other ingredients for flavour masking, and textural adjustments, are advisable, thereby making this product more appealing and accepted by a larger number of consumers. This prototype can be a good approach for the circular economy, environmental sustainability, and food security. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Considering the need to feed the increasing world population, it is essential to ensure that food production systems are sustainable. Aquaculture has been identified as a potential crucial source of sustainable food with its significant potential for future growth, notably by the recent EU regulations aiming at boosting food security and sustainable food systems. In this context, it is important to reflect on how the aquaculture of carnivorous species, which are exhibiting the highest growth rates, stands in respect of environmental impacts and contribution to the overall food supply. In particular, tuna aquaculture has been largely criticized for its high environmental impacts and general low sustainability. Methods: Here, we present a methodology to assess the sustainability of seafood production systems, with a first analysis applied to Atlantic bluefin tuna (BFT) aquaculture, detailed for both BFT fattening and farming. Results: Results suggest that the limited economic and social contributions of BFT aquaculture do not currently compensate its environmental impacts with an estimate of a 3.4-fold higher long-term social cost than the short-term economic gain. Discussion: However, it is also a species where the production cycle is not closed in commercial operation, and with a significant potential for further improvement as the control of the production process increases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Societal Impact Statement Summary Genebanks contribute to global food security, directly influencing societal well‐being, by providing access to seed or genetic material that is more resilient to pests, diseases, and environmental stresses. The ability to develop crops adapted to changing environmental conditions and with high nutritional value means societies can better cope with the adverse effects of climate change, safeguarding food production and rural livelihoods. Enhancing sustainable crop traits, such as improved water‐use efficiency and nutrient utilization, supports the transition toward more sustainable agricultural practices. New technologically advanced phenotyping tools are required to optimally realize the potential of these genetic resources, to identify plant genetic resources that will best enable us to address current global challenges.Plant genebanks have a crucial role as specialized repositories, preserving diverse plant genetic resources and providing essential access to researchers, breeders, and farmers for developing resilient crops. With over 7 million global accessions, these genebanks significantly contribute to global food security, climate change mitigation, and sustainable agriculture. This opinion paper, inspired by an international workshop in 2022 in Wageningen (Netherlands), focuses on the transformative impact of phenomics technology within genebanks, offering a view on its potential applications and implications for preserving and utilizing plant genetic resources. Discussions from the 2022 workshop organized by the International Plant Phenotyping Network are integrated, emphasizing the potential of phenomics for global collaboration without requiring major policy developments. The workshop prioritized traits like disease resistance and drought tolerance, highlighting roots as a critical organ for phenotyping. Participants expressed a keen interest in global collaboration, emphasizing the need for partnerships between genebanks and advanced phenotyping facilities. The workshop's outcomes underscore the transformative impact of phenomics on genebanks, promoting innovation, collaboration, and sustainable agricultural practices. These results will guide future pilot studies, marking a significant step toward integrating phenomics into genebank practices and ensuring the continued prosperity of plant genetic heritage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In 2023, 25% of adults in England, Wales and Northern Ireland experienced food insecurity. The concentration of food insecurity in both socioeconomically disadvantaged groups and households containing children raises concerns about its uneven nutritional and health impacts across different groups. In parallel with rising food insecurity over the past decade, concerns about the environmental consequences of human diets are intensifying, where urgent changes are needed to people's diets to avoid irreversible environmental damage. It is generally assumed that cost has a significant impact on people's ability to adopt more environmentally sustainable food practices. This UK Research Council‐funded project seeks to gain insights into the ways in which low‐income mothers (are able to) engage with environmentally sustainable food practices. RQ1 will examine the day‐to‐day food practices that mothers undertake for their families to offer insights into everyday food insecurity and the relevance of environmentally sustainable food practices. RQ2 will explore biographical experiences to highlight how mothers' life histories influence their familial food practices, including their current household food security and engagement with environmentally sustainable food practices. Finally, RQ3 will explore mothers' upcoming prospects of food insecurity and environmentally sustainable food practices. These research questions will be explored through a qualitative longitudinal, feminist study of 15 low‐income mothers in Sheffield, UK, combining in‐depth interviews with ethnographic elements. Gaining improved knowledge of mothers' food practices on a low income will be valuable to influence realistic, effective and meaningful philosophies, policies and practical action that prioritises equity, good nutrition and environmentally sustainable food practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study utilized high-throughput sequencing to investigate endophytic bacteria diversity in halophytic plants Anabasis truncate (AT) and Anabasis eriopoda (AE) from the Aral Sea region. Following sequence processing, 356 Amplicon Sequence Variants (ASVs) were discovered. The abundance and variety of endophytic bacteria were higher in AT. Bacillota, Pseudomonadota, Actinomycetota, and Bacteroidota constituted the dominant in AE, whereas Pseudomonadota, Actinomycetota, Bacteroidota, and Chloroflexota constituted the dominant in AT. Biomarkers were identified through LEFSe analysis, showing host-specific patterns. PCoA indicated distinct bacterial community structures. Phylogenetic analysis revealed diverse endophytic bacteria, including potential novel taxa. PICRUSt2 predicted diverse functions for endophytic bacteria in halophytes, indicating recruitment of beneficial bacterial taxa to adapt to extreme hypersaline conditions, including plant growth-promoting, biocontrol, and halophilic/tolerant bacteria. Moreover, the evolutionary relationship, metabolic capabilities, and plant beneficial potentials of the Bacillus swezeyi strains, previously isolated from the above two halophytes, were analyzed using comparative genomic and physiological analysis. The B. swezeyi strains displayed versatile environmental adaptability, as shown by their ability to use a wide range of carbon sources and their salt tolerances. B. swezeyi possessed a wide range of enzymatic capabilities, including but not limited to proteases, cellulases, and chitinases. Comparative genomic analysis revealed that despite some variations, they shared genetic similarities and metabolic capabilities among the B. swezeyi strains. B. swezeyi strains also displayed outstanding plant-growth-promoting and antagonistic potentials, offering potential solutions to the global food crisis. This study enhances our understanding of microbial diversity in halophytes on saline-alkali land in the West Aral Sea, shedding light on the halophyte microbiome and its collaboration with hosts in highly hypersaline environments. This study also provides a scientific basis for developing high-quality microbial fertilizers and implementing sustainable agricultural practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Increasing farmers' grain profits is crucial for enhancing the sustainability of grain production and ensuring food security. As a widely applied agricultural management means at present, agricultural productive services are of great significance to study whether they can help increase farmers' grain profits. This paper uses the micro-farmer data from the 2020 China Rural Revitalization Survey (CRRS). It employs an endogenous switching regression model and causal mediation analysis methods, which can address endogenous issues, to examine the impact of agricultural productive services on farmers' grain profits and their underlying mechanisms. The results show: (1) Agricultural productive services significantly increase farmers' grain profits and this conclusion is still robust after the robustness test. (2) The mechanism analysis indicates that agricultural productive services increase farmers' grain profits through three pathways: yield enhancement, cost reduction, and efficiency improvement. (3) The heterogeneity analysis shows that agricultural productive services have a greater impact on increasing grain profits for farmers with lower grain profits, smaller operating scales, and lower degrees of farmland fragmentation. Our findings suggest that increasing support for agricultural productive services, fully leveraging the radiative driving role of service providers, and offering farmers various forms of productive services will be key measures to enhance farmers' grain profits, promote sustainable grain production, and ensure food security. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND RESULTS CONCLUSIONS Food loss and waste estimates are highly inconsistent as a result of methodological and systemic differences. Additionally, the absence of in‐depth evidence surrounding the biological drivers of food loss and waste precludes targeted mitigation action. To address this challenge, we undertook a metanalysis utilising a systematic literature review combined with industry stakeholder surveys to examine the incidence of food loss and waste in the UK fruit and vegetable supply chain between primary production and retail.We estimated that 37% of fruit and vegetables, equivalent to 2.4 Mt of produce, is lost between production and sale. In the UK, primary production is the main stage responsible for these losses (58%), and is dominated by four crops (apple, onion, carrot and potato), which contribute 71% of total food loss and waste. Quality and supply/demand mismatch are the core drivers, combined with limited ability to control postharvest quality decline as a result of technical or economic barriers.Innate biological mechanisms contribute to, and detract from, marketable quality generating food loss risks where these cannot be adequately modified or controlled. Through climate change effects, reduced pesticide availability, changing consumer behaviour and increased pressure to reduce resource/energy inputs during pre‐ and postharvest handling, food loss and waste risk is likely to increase in the short term unless targeted, coordinated action is taken to actively promote its mitigation. © 2024 The Author(s). Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Processing is an inevitable step in the manufacturing of animal-based foods (ABF) and animal by-products (ABP). However, our society has reached a point where our food systems have reached unsustainable levels. The impact of ABF/ABP processing on sustainability has been arguably overlooked in comparison with production. This perspective paper aims to discuss and identify research gaps regarding the assessments of the sustainability of ABF/ABF processing. First, we describe why processing techniques can have various levels of complexity, with uses that are more or less impactful on the environment depending on the products and possible synergies. In the second part, we review how impacts on sustainability have been evaluated at global and local scales using life cycle assessments (LCA). To contribute to such an approach, we suggest novel or recently introduced types of indicators that would improve future LCA studies by capturing relevant information. In the third part, we encourage a systemic view of sustainability by considering the complexity of the whole supply chains of ABF and ABP. We highlight the current gaps or challenges in evaluating sustainability across supply chains and point the readers toward recent studies that address these limitations. We hope this perspective will help improve the design of academic and industrial studies or evaluation of ABF and ABP sustainability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Child stunting is a critical concern with far-reaching consequences for the developmental prospects of affected children. To address this issue, Indonesia has initiated a targeted program to support rural families. This program's two-fold approach includes aiding with dietary needs and delivering counseling services via Community Health Centers. The primary aim of the current study was to explore the determinants that promote or inhibit engagement with this stunting prevention initiative. Methodologically, the research encompassed 10 direct observations, 45 focus group discussions, and 23 in-depth interviews to gather comprehensive data. The participants were drawn from a cross-section of the rural populace, including households, village government officials, and healthcare providers. Feedback on the program was predominantly positive, with participants demonstrating favorable perceptions towards it. Notably, the program's contribution to improving household health was apparent, serving as an impetus for active participation. Nevertheless, the research identified significant barriers to program engagement, namely the existence of social behaviors that were at odds with the program's objectives and a widespread deficit in the understanding of the importance of nutritional food security. These factors present considerable challenges to fully realizing the program's potential impact. Direct observations highlighted the program's effectiveness in regions with strong community health infrastructure. Focus group discussions underscored the importance of cultural sensitivity in program implementation, as local customs and traditions significantly influenced participation levels. In-depth interviews with healthcare providers shed light on logistical challenges, such as inconsistent supply chains for nutritional supplements and gaps in training for health workers. Village government officials emphasized the need for greater inter-agency coordination to streamline services and reduce redundancy. Despite these challenges, the program's strengths were evident. Participants appreciated the holistic approach, combining immediate dietary support with educational components aimed at fostering sustainable health practices. For the program to achieve broader success, it must address the identified barriers through targeted interventions, such as enhanced community education campaigns, improved logistical support, and greater cultural integration into program design. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Kirkview Farms in Dalkeith, Ontario practices regenerative agriculture, which emphasizes sustainable farming practices that benefit the environment and produce organic, non-GMO, nutrient-dense food. The farm has partnered with Concordia University's Innovation Lab to allow students to experiment with planting methods, food security, and low-capital practices. The farmers at Kirkview Farms prioritize the symbiotic relationship between animals and the land, ensuring that both thrive in a balanced and healthy environment. They employ rotational grazing and move their animals daily to enrich their diets and maintain the land's fertility. The farm also integrates water management, composting, and biodiversity practices to create a diverse and resilient ecosystem. Despite the challenges, the rewards of regenerative agriculture are significant, as it produces high-quality food and ensures the land remains productive for future generations. [Extracted from the article]

Illegal access of resources within protected areas to meet basic needs plays a significant role in the interaction between individuals, protected areas, and neighboring communities in Africa. However, our understanding of how household livelihoods are linked to this type of illegal access at a household level is limited. Additionally, research on poaching tends to focus on commercial poaching and wildlife trafficking. This study addresses this gap by examining the complex relationship between three types of livelihood security (i.e., food security, financial security, and educational security) and the likelihood of participating in illegal activities in communities surrounding Tanzania's Mkomazi National Park. To gather data, we surveyed 267 heads of household in 8 villages that were randomly selected out of the 22 villages that border Mkomazi National Park. Structural modeling analysis was used to analyze the data. Our findings indicate that food security is the primary driver of engagement in illegal activities within the park; education security and financial security have limited influence on the likelihood of subsistence poaching when accounting for food security. Interestingly, we observed a correlation between financial security and increased illegal grazing, which can be attributed to individuals with greater financial means purchasing more cattle and thereby increasing the demand for fodder. Addressing food security should be prioritized in efforts to mitigate subsistence poaching within protected areas. Our research highlights the importance of developing sustainable alternatives to ensure food security and meet other essential needs in communities adjacent to Mkomazi National Park. By striking a balance between improving livelihoods and fostering conservation efforts, conservation and development organizations can work towards a sustainable future for both protected areas and people. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nowadays, food systems are undergoing major transformations to achieve the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). However, there are a lack of comprehensive reviews on this topic in developing countries. This work highlights food systems' transition towards sustainability, focusing on Morocco. It was carried out through searching, selecting, evaluating, and synthesizing existing relevant scholarly and gray literature. In Morocco, a meaningful transition towards sustainability is being guided and carried out on several levels, despite numerous challenges, e.g., inability to cope with the detrimental effects of climate change and escalating water scarcity constitute fundamental problems. However, there are conflicting views on the outcomes of food system transformation. Some studies showed that Morocco has increased its agri-food export and reduced poverty to less than 5% of the population over the past decade; the proportion of wasted and malnourished children has declined from 25 to 15% and 4 to 3%, respectively, and the 2023 Global Hunger Index (GHI) showed a score of 9.0. Other studies showed that North Africa has entered a food security crisis; specifically, food inflation has reached unprecedented levels in Morocco. This paper provides valuable insights for policymakers and planners to design evidence-based policies and strategies to boost sustainable development in Morocco. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Macroalgae are beneficial for consumers and producers due to their high productivity, their chemical composition and their efficient cultivation without additional feed. Asia dominates global macroalgae production, while European production is still marginal and mainly based on wild harvesting in the North Atlantic. The European Commission has launched initiatives to promote the sustainable production, safe consumption and innovative use of macroalgae products in European regional seas, including the Mediterranean Sea. A variety of coastal and seabed types and a wide range of environmental conditions make the Mediterranean a hotspot of marine biodiversity while providing good conditions for the cultivation of macroalgae. The aim of this paper is to compare the global macroalgae production and macroalgae production in the Mediterranean Sea, focussing on the cultivation of edible macroalgae. The paper also discusses the limitations and possibilities of macroalgae production in the region. Macroalgae production is one of the most promising sectors of the blue economy in the Mediterranean. The production of edible macroalgae suitable for human consumption has great potential, considering future population growth and related food security and health issues, as well as the additional ecosystem benefits of macroalgae production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Native Hawaiians were a healthy and robust population who developed a sophisticated food system that was dismantled by colonization. Currently, Native Hawaiians face pervasive health disparities due to the limited access to healthy foods and lifestyles. This study pilot tested a family-based community-driven intervention called MALAMA, which teaches families to build and use a backyard aquaponics system to grow their own food. A total of 21 participants from 10 families completed a three-month curriculum that included a series of hands-on workshops. Participant attendance was recorded and participants completed a behavioral health questionnaire as well as provided clinical indicators at three time points. They also attended a focus group at the end of the curriculum. There was a high level of engagement and no participant attrition. Fruit consumption among all participants significantly increased and there were favorable trends in blood pressure and fish and vegetable consumption. No significant differences were found in the other clinical indicators. Participants found MALAMA to be highly culturally acceptable and identified multiple benefits. Community-driven solutions, such as MALAMA, may be a promising approach to addressing pervasive health disparities and promoting health equity in minority and Indigenous communities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: The development of a decarbonised food industry will depend on a sustainable agricultural system where embodied food product greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) can be associated with agricultural production. The method presented demonstrates how mapping agri‐production can be used to calculate regional carbon footprints so GHG emission reduction is geographically strategic. Different agronomic and husbandry outcomes are mapped using Geographic Information Systems (GIS's) and carbon footprints are calculated using Life Cycle Inventory (LCI) libraries. The hybridised GIS‐LCI approach reports unique insights for decarbonisation, demonstrating how farming practices can be further integrated to best deliver food security. We use the GIS‐LCI method to show; (1), geography limits crop and livestock production types; (2), agri‐product density data can be used to calculate a food system carbon footprint; and (3), GIS's can be used to focus food policy for sustainability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pseudocercospora fruit and leaf spot (PFLS), also known as angular leaf spot of citrus, is a devastating fungal disease that poses a significant threat to citrus production, profitability and food security in sub‐Saharan Africa and the Arabian Peninsula. In the present review, we explore current knowledge regarding PFLS management initiatives, including cultural practices, chemical control strategies and biological interventions. Furthermore, this review highlights the challenges faced in controlling PFLS and emphasizes the urgent need for sustainable and cost‐effective solutions to combat the disease. We discuss recent advancements and emerging prospects in understanding PFLS, including novel approaches for disease management and the potential for developing resistant citrus cultivars through breeding programmes or genetic modification. By synthesizing existing research findings and identifying gaps in knowledge, this review aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of PFLS and its impact on food security. We emphasize the importance of collaborative efforts, knowledge exchange and developing integrated disease management strategies to control PFLS and mitigate its detrimental effects on citrus production and farmers' livelihoods in affected regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of supplemental light has been proven to be effective in growing plants in controlled environments. These light sources have been proven effective in influencing both, developmental and phytochemical pathways. Among artificial/supplemental lights, light emitting diodes (LEDs) offer several advantages and unique properties. Consequently, the use of this novel technology has gained popularity in indoor plant cultivation. In this review, recent achievements and progress related to the preharvest application of LED technology are discussed, starting from the selection of appropriate LED wavelengths to varying photoperiod to enhance crop growth, yield, and phytochemical concentrations. The review further summarises the recent developments in the use of LED technology for cultivating crops hydroponically and the economic implications of LED usage is briefly discussed. Lastly, the future prospects and research directions are presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is imperative to enhance crop yield to meet the demands of a burgeoning global population while simultaneously safeguarding the environment from adverse impacts, which is one of the dominant challenges confronting humanity in this phase of global climate change. To overcome this problem and reduce dependency on chemical fertilizer, scientists now view the implementation of biostimulant strategies as a cost-effective and environmentally friendly approach to achieving sustainable agriculture. Plant extracts are rich in bioactive phytocompounds, which can enhance plant resistance to disease, pest, and abiotic stresses (e.g., drought, salinity, and extreme temperature), and promote plant growth and productivity. Furthermore, the application of plant extracts through soil drenching can also significantly change the rhizosphere soil microbiome, and indirectly interact with plants, eventually stabilizing plant growth. Currently, the application of plant extracts as a whole is effective, which emphasizes the contribution of complex interactions between multiple compounds, with seaweed extracts being the most widely studied and utilized. Interestingly, plant extracts are compatible with fertilizer and can be applied in conjunction with nutrient inputs to further enhance their effectiveness. Given all this knowledge, exploring the growth and functional effects induced by plant extracts, as well as understanding their interactions and mechanisms in plants, is crucial for developing advantageous approaches with potential value in integrated crop management systems, ultimately contributing to sustainable production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Land degradation is a major threat to sub-Saharan Africa rangelands, which are crucial for livestock farming and the livelihood of millions of people in the region. This systematic review aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the causes and effects of land degradation, as well as to evaluate the effectiveness of different mitigation strategies. Following the PRISMA guidelines, we identified, screened, and analyzed 25 peer-reviewed articles published before 30 June 2024 using Scopus. The review highlights key factors that drive land degradation, such as soil erosion, drought, deforestation, and climate change, as well as socio-economic factors like poverty, land tenure issues, population pressure, and economic instability. These factors have serious implications, as land degradation can lead to poor quality of forage, an increased incidence of diseases, higher mortality rates among livestock, and a significant decline in livestock productivity. The socio-economic consequences of this degradation are significant, leading to reduced household income, increased poverty, and heightened food insecurity. Furthermore, the review assesses various mitigation strategies and concludes that practices such as rotational grazing and soil conservation techniques demonstrate high effectiveness, while agroforestry practices show only moderate success. An integrated approach that combines environmental, economic, and policy measures is crucial to addressing the complex challenge of land degradation in sub-Saharan Africa. Strengthening land tenure, improving economic stability, and promoting sustainable agricultural practices are essential steps toward improving the health of rangelands, increasing livestock productivity, and supporting the resilience and well-being of rural communities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Creating propositions for the near and distant future requires a design to catch the tide of the times and move with or against trends. In addition, appropriate, adaptable, flexible, and transformational projects are needed in light of changes in science, technology, social, economic, political, and demographic fields over time. Humanity is facing a period in which science and developing technologies will be even more important in solving food safety, health, and environmental problems. Adapting to and mitigating climate change; reducing pollution, waste, and biodiversity loss; and feeding a growing global population with safe food are key challenges facing the agri-food industry and the food supply chain, requiring systemic transformation in agricultural systems and sustainable future agri-food. The aim of this review is to compile scientific evidence and data, define, and create strategies for the future in terms of food security, safety, and sufficiency; future sustainable foods and alternative protein sources; factors affecting food and nutrition security and agriculture; and promising food systems such as functional foods, novel foods, synthetic biology, and 3D food printing. In this review, the safety, conservation, nutritional, sensory, welfare, and potential challenges and limitations of food systems and the opportunities to overcome them on the basis of new approaches, innovative interpretations, future possibilities, and technologies are discussed. Additionally, this review also offers suggestions for future research and food trends in light of future perspectives. This article focuses on future sustainable foods, alternative protein sources, and novel efficient food systems, highlights scientific and technological advances and new research directions, and provides a significant perspective on sustainability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thai native chickens hold significant value in rural communities due to their adaptability and suitability for local rearing conditions. However, there are challenges in the commercial raising of these chickens. This study aimed to evaluate and promote the potential of Thai native chickens (Pradu Hang Dum) for commercial purposes and the development of sustainable native chicken farming. Out of 110 interested farmers, 88 met preliminary conditions and 62 were well-prepared and willing to comply with project conditions. Some farmers were disqualified for not understanding the project conditions or having inadequately prepared chicken coops. The survival rate of native chickens provided to farmers through the project was 52%. Among the surviving birds, 40% were male and 60% were female. The most common causes of death in the project were sickness, accidents, and fighting. The average body weights and average daily gains at different ages were significantly different among farm groups. The average egg production per hatch per hen was 13 ± 2.4 eggs. The highest egg production was in the good farms compared to moderate and poor farms. Better farm management led to higher egg production. In conclusion, this study demonstrates that effective farm management significantly enhances the productivity of Thai native chickens, highlighting their potential as an income-generating activity for rural communities. While challenges such as sickness and accidents impact survival rates, the findings suggest that improved management practices can lead to better production outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Singapore, being a land-scarce country, imports more than 90% of the food supply, which poses a challenge in ensuring food security. In the last five years, Singapore, with a population of 5.9 million, generated approximately 759 tonnes of food waste on average, thus further deepening food security challenges and imposing enormous pressure on the country's food and land resources. The Zero Waste Plan and the 30-by-30 food security goal initiated by the Singapore government focus on reducing waste and improving resource efficiency and encourage the collective efforts from the local agri-food businesses to sustainably provide 30% of Singapore's nutritional requirements by 2030. In recent years, valorizing food waste streams into higher-value products has been an increasing trend in tackling food wastage and offering a new source of food ingredients. Food wastes such as okara, spent barley grains, and fruit and vegetable wastes have been successfully valorized into a variety of prototypes by local research and development capabilities for food and agricultural applications. However, food waste valorization faces various challenges, i.e., infrastructure development, economy viability, consumer awareness, collaborative partnership, regulatory support, and data management. This review serves as a reference for other countries in ensuring food security and achieving sustainable development goals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examined the effects of environmental sustainability and carbon emissions on post-harvest losses. Data used were collected from several databases such as World Bank Development Indicators (WDI), Food and Agriculture Organization Statistics (FAOSTAT), World Bank Doing Business and country policy and institutional assessment (CPIA) over the period of 2004 to 2022. The study applied the Fully Modified Ordinary Least Squares (FMOLS), Dynamic Ordinary Least Squares (DOLS) and Granger causality tests for the data analysis. The results showed that environmental sustainability reduces post-harvest losses, while carbon emissions increase post-harvest losses. The results suggest that a focus on environmental sustainability practices can help reduce post-harvest losses, while higher carbon emissions are associated with increased post-harvest losses. This underscores the importance of adopting environmentally friendly practices to enhance food security and reduce waste in the agricultural supply chain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Intensive actions implemented to alleviate poverty created many challenges. Millions of people face acute food insecurity; hence, food production needs to be increased to feed the existing and increasing population through sustainable agricultural practices. Sustainable agricultural development is the only way forward to assist humanity. Research Method: TExisting literature on sustainable agriculture was reviewed, explored, understood, described, evaluated, and synthesized and their relationships to sustain smallholder farmers were analyzed. Findings: Technological innovations in increasing resource use efficiency, modern breeding techniques, and renewable energy sources aid in achieving sustainability in agriculture. Technology enhances the adaption of agriculture to climate change and increases productivity and the quality of life of farming communities. Smallholder farms with limited information and transportation need government support to access markets with modern commercialization channels. Women need to be empowered to deliver multiple agricultural roles. Wise use of natural resources, optimum allocation, and utilization of resources are vital in enhancing farm productivity. Technical knowledge, availability of inputs, extension services, and financial support are paramount in maximizing productivity and income from agriculture. Agricultural investments need substantial increments to address food insecurity and adaptation to climate change. Dissemination of research findings and experience in sustainable agricultural production practices in informal and formal ways among all agricultural stakeholders is vital in achieving agricultural sustainability. Minimizing postharvest losses through technologies is essential in minimizing global food insecurity to enhance smallholder farmers’ income. Policies related to social, economic, eco-friendly production strategies and environmental aspects directly and indirectly linked to agriculture are vital in these processes. Hence, an integral approach towards the agricultural development of smallholder and subsistence farmers can lead them to sustainability ensuring their food security. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Institutions worldwide call for joint actions of multiple actors in partnerships to accelerate the transitions towards sustainable food systems and reach food security for everybody, allways. This requires insights into co-creating processes. Here, 52 European food system cases are analyzed. A methodology based on the game structure is used that permits standardizing data collection and extracting generic and cases-specific findings. Game building blocks correspond with key elements of co-creation processes, like defining mutually accepted objectives, engaging in types of activities, and efficient use of resources, boundary conditions, timings, and scales of operations. Results further indicate that different types of inclusive partnerships emerge, in which especially innovative private, including smallholders, and academic actors cocreate value, all contributing to sustainability. The public and civil society actors emerge as important initiators, enablers, and organizers of scales of interaction, allowing generating snowball effects. Findings lead to an adapted concept for co-creating partnerships in food systems and recommendations for the European Partnership on sustainable food systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Food insecurity is a multidimensional and intricate problem, known to have significant implications for individuals, communities, and countries worldwide. Africa has become the continent that is experiencing this uncertainty the most. Food Security (FS) encompasses several aspects such as availability, accessibility, nutrient use, and supply system stability with time and, more recently, other obliges to governance/agency and sustainability. Knowing the interconnection between these aspects and the Ecosystems Services (ES) and understanding the relationship and interactions between FS and ES is important. Moreover, this knowledge may contribute to supporting policies that promote long-term sustainable and secure food systems. Hereby, a conceptual framework is presented, that examines interactions between food insecurity drivers and ecosystem change drivers and the combined influence on ES. Our review further introduces existing trade-offs between ES on account of agricultural intensification vs. key existing strategies to promote sustainable agricultural production. These strategies include climate-smart agriculture, sustainably managed land, and effective handling of water resources. In the end, the potential of Payment for Ecosystem Services (PES), as a suitable approach to ensuring these strategies are adopted, especially in African countries where sustainable financial incentives are currently under-explored is discussed. In resume, this review aims to make a conceptual contribution to understanding how drivers of food insecurity influence drivers of ecosystem changes, the impact of these influences on the services of ecosystems, and how sustainable agro approaches and PES introduction can help to reduce such negative impacts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reducing vulnerability of smallholder farmers to climate change is a global issue. One approach viewed as important in reducing farmers' vulnerability to climate change is Climate-Smart Agriculture (CSA). CSA is often seen as an approach to redefine, reposition and sustainably manage agriculture. Given the importance of CSA practices in sustaining the food needs of many farm households in sub-Saharan Africa and Ghana, this study investigates CSA practices that were introduced to farmers by Center for Indigenous Knowledge and Development (CIKOD), interrogates the contributions of CSA to reducing farmers vulnerability to climate change and established the relationship between CSA and climate change adaptation. The study employed a mixed method approach, using 146 smallholder millet and sorghum farmers. Questionnaire and interviews were used to generate primary data for analysis. Descriptive statistics, involving Chisquare test and relative importance index were used to analyze the questionnaire while thematic analytical approach was used to analyze the interviews. The results of the study revealed that CSA practices such as crop rotation, weed control, contour farming, and land rotation are deployed by smallholder farmers to respond to drought, dry spell and flood in the Municipality. Asset holding capacity, credit, access to climate information, and extension services were found to be key determinants of farmers' adoption of CSA practices. The study recommends the need for the Ministry of Food and Agriculture to provide some technical support to smallholder farmers to successfully adopt these practices for sustainable farming. Again, the study recommends the need for nongovernmental organizations and development partners, which over the years have shown interest in promoting CSA practices among farmers, to continuous to support and promote the adoption of CSA by farmers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The field of urban agriculture has seen an increase in development and attention in recent years, with a large share of literature addressing whether urban agriculture may pose a solution for food insecurity and combat environmental impacts. However, few studies have examined the many sustainability claims of urban agriculture systems, especially for urban farms intended for larger output and commercial ends. In this study, we analyze sustainability assessments of urban agriculture for commercial implementation. We do this by exploring the methods employed for conducting sustainability analyses, outlining the different urban agriculture cultivation systems, analyzing which sustainability aspects are considered, looking into what the sustainability analyses conclude, and studying how authors anticipate the knowledge gained from their sustainability assessments can be used. Environmental aspects of sustainability were more often assessed than other sustainability aspects, and LCA research practice was used for the majority of environmental assessments. Some studies compared the environmental benefits of different types of urban agriculture systems, but this was not conclusive overall as to what systems would be more environmentally beneficial. This suggests that urban agriculture's sustainability cannot be universally categorized but should be assessed in relation to specific environmental conditions and urban contexts. Future research should aim to develop more nuanced frameworks for evaluating the environmental, social, economic and governance impacts of urban agriculture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The nitrogen (N) cycle is an intricate biogeochemical process that encompasses the conversion of several chemical forms of N. Given its role in food production, the need for N for life on Earth is obvious. However, the release of reactive nitrogen (Nr) species throughout different biogeochemical processes contributes to atmospheric pollution. Several human activities generate many species, including ammonia, nitrous oxide (N2O), nitric oxide, and nitrate. The primary reasons for this change are the use of nitrogen-based fertilizers, industrial activities, and the burning of fossil fuels. N2O poses a significant threat to environmental sustainability on our planet, with its global warming potential approximately 298 times greater than that of CO2. It has direct or indirect impacts on the environment, agroecosystem, and human life on earth. Solar, hydroelectric, geothermal, and wind turbines must be used to reduce Nr emissions. In addition, enterprises should install catalytic converters to minimize nitrogen gas emissions. To reduce Nr emissions, strategic interventions like fertilizer balancing are needed. This work will serve as a comprehensive guide for researchers, academics, and policymakers. Additionally, it will also assist social workers in emphasizing the Nr issue to the public in order to raise awareness within worldwide society. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Ka Ora, Ka Ako school lunch programme introduced in 2020 provides nutritious lunches to around 220,000 students in low-advantage schools. While the food security impacts of this programme have been well documented, its potential to enhance outcomes in other areas of public policy is underappreciated. We conducted a policy analysis to map the programme's intersection with current public policy agendas in education, sustainability and health in Aotearoa New Zealand. We conclude that Ka Ora, Ka Ako can be a powerful platform to effect broad societal outcomes through alignment with school curricula, concerted effort to reduce carbon emissions, and commitment to delivering highly nutritious foods to all students in qualifying schools. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Human dietary patterns are a major cause of environmental transformation, with agriculture occupying ~ 50% of global land space, while food production itself is responsible for ~ 30% of all greenhouse gas emissions and 70% of freshwater use. Furthermore, the global population is also growing, such that by 2050, it is estimated to exceed ~ 9 billion. While most of this expansion in population is expected to occur in developing countries, in high-income countries there are also predicted changes in demographics, with major increases in the number of older people. There is a growing consensus that older people have a greater requirement for protein. With a larger and older population, global needs for protein are set to increase. This paper summarises the conclusions from a Rank Prize funded colloquium evaluating novel strategies to meet this increasing global protein need. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accurate and timely prediction of crop yields is crucial for ensuring food security and promoting sustainable agricultural practices. This study developed a winter wheat yield prediction model using machine learning techniques, incorporating remote sensing data and statistical yield records from Henan Province, China. The core of the model is an ensemble voting regressor, which integrates ridge regression, gradient boosting, and random forest algorithms. This study optimized the hyperparameters of the ensemble voting regressor and conducted an in-depth comparison of its yield prediction performance with that of other mainstream machine learning models, assessing the impact of key hyperparameters on model accuracy. This study also explored the potential of yield prediction at different growth stages and its application in yield spatialization. The results demonstrate that the ensemble voting regressor performed exceptionally well throughout the entire growth period, with an R2 of 0.90, an RMSE of 439.21 kg/ha, and an MAE of 351.28 kg/ha. Notably, during the heading stage, the model's prediction performance was particularly impressive, with an R2 of 0.81, an RMSE of 590.04 kg/ha, and an MAE of 478.38 kg/ha, surpassing models developed for other growth stages. Additionally, by establishing a yield spatialization model, this study mapped county-level yield predictions to the pixel level, visually illustrating the spatial differences in land productivity. These findings provide reliable technical support for winter wheat yield prediction and valuable references for crop yield estimation in precision agriculture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nowadays, using domestic sewage wastewater for agricultural irrigation is becoming increasingly important for sustainable water resources management. Several national and international programs have been implemented to mitigate wastewater. However, it is important to ensure that these measures are affordable, effective, and sustainable. The aim of the present study is to determine, after all these mitigations, whether these domestic sewage wastewaters can be used as a potential irrigation source and at the same time ensure environmental food security. With these objectives, we analyzed the consequences of domestic sewage effluent irrigation on soil physical–chemical properties and nutritive and nutraceutical properties of cultivated green vegetables, Luffa acutangula (L.) Roxb. and Lagenaria siceraria (Molina) Standl., in the semi‐urban ecosystem compared with well water irrigated crops in a rural area. The quality status of both well water irrigated and domestic sewage wastewater irrigated soil samples showed similar and/or comparable values, that is, domestic sewage wastewater irrigation does not harm the soil quality and both were comparable with the permissible limits of BIS (Bureau of Indian Standards) including heavy metal contents. And positively supporting the objective of our study, the nutrient status/proximate composition of both the vegetables in terms of protein, gross energy, carbohydrate, etc., were higher in domestic sewage wastewater irrigated crops compared with the well water irrigated crops. The antioxidant activity also exhibited a significant increase in the sewage wastewater irrigated crops rather than the well water irrigated ones. Hence the results of the present study state that due to the impact of the mitigation measures, domestic sewage wastewater is now pertinent to be used as an irrigation source and also a possible organic fertilizer without any ambiguity. Moreover, more field‐oriented studies may ensure the potential of wastewater irrigation for sustainable crop production without any pollution, particularly in a semi‐urban area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microplastics (MPs) are contaminants of global concern, especially considering their widespread use. However, a systematic and comprehensive analytical procedure is not yet standardized for MPs in soils. Most of the methods have primarily been modified from existing marine research without acknowledging the inherent complexities of sampling and analyzing MPs in soil ecosystems. This review critically evaluates existing sampling, separation, identification, and quantification methods for MPs in soils and proposes a comprehensive methodology comprising eight phases for analyzing MPs in soils. We emphasize the importance of the soil sampling planning phase before conducting soil MP analyses and the necessity to assess physicochemical properties. Novel methods should be developed, and existing analytical approaches must be adequately modified and refined, given the heterogeneity of soils. Soil MP analyses should be coordinated globally by utilizing existing networks and infrastructure for soils, crops, and food security research and biomonitoring in conjunction with environmental and material sciences. This critical review may be an effective model for developing global standards for MP analysis in soils, focusing on the new regulations initiated by the UNEP to develop a legally binding agreement on plastic pollution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Globally, large numbers of people suffer from undernourishment and food insecurity, while a third of food produced is lost or wasted. The widely cultivated cashew nut produces large quantities of waste in early processing. It grows on an edible peduncle called the cashew apple which contains many essential nutrients. An estimated 36.9 million tons of cashew apples are produced annually, but only small amounts are used to make juice. The remainder is considered production waste. This review presents the potential of cashew apple pomace as a food ingredient and examines the effects of incorporation on chemical composition, physical properties and sensory evaluation. Inclusion in optimized amounts into food products is a strategy proven to produce palatable results with high acceptability. Transforming this manufacturing by-product into a functional food component will have economic benefits, improve resource-utilization, promote sustainability and potentially increase the nutritional value of foods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the context of ever-growing demand for food and associated concerns regarding the environmental impacts of high-input agricultural systems, there is growing interest in mixed farm enterprises to deliver greater sustainability compared with mono-enterprise production systems. However, assessments of such systems are complex and require high-resolution data to determine the true value and interconnectivity across enterprises. Given the scarcity of information on mixed crop–livestock systems and the difficulties of its analysis, we perform life cycle assessment using temporally high-resolution data (2019–2022) from a long-term experiment in South America to evaluate the 'cradle-to-farmgate exit' greenhouse gas emissions intensities of four rotational crop–livestock systems. Systems evaluated were continuous cropping: 2 years of continuous cropping; short rotation: 2-year continuous cropping plus 2-year pasture; long rotation: 2-year continuous cropping followed by 4-year pasture; and forage rotation: continuous pasture. Emissions intensities for beef throughput were reported as kilograms of carbon dioxide equivalents (CO2-eq) per kilogram of liveweight gain (LWG) using the Intergovernmental Panel for Climate Change's Sixth Assessment Report (AR6 2021) CO2 characterisation factors. Point estimate results were found to be 11.3, 11.8, 11.8 and 16.4 kg CO2-eq/kg/LWG for continuous cropping, short rotation, long rotation and forage rotation, respectively. Emission averages arising from crops, which were separated from animal-based emissions using economic allocation, were 1.23, 0.53 and 0.52 kg CO2-eq/kg for soybean, wheat and oat, respectively. The inclusion of soil organic carbon stock changes had notable effects on reducing each system's emissions: by 22.4%, 19.2%, 25.3% and 42.1% under continuous cropping, short rotation, long rotation and forage rotation, respectively, when soil organic carbon was included. Given there are few life cycle assessment studies available on such mixed-enterprise 'semi-circular' systems, particularly with novel primary data, this study adds critical knowledge to agri-food-related sustainability literature by addressing environmental issues in complex production systems compared to extant and broad coverage of mono-enterprise systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Global population continuous growth and increasing consumers' demands for protein-rich diets have posed sustainability challenges for traditional livestock feed sources. Consequently, exploring alternative and sustainable protein sources has become imperative to address the environmental burden and resource limitations associated with conventional ingredients. With respect to food security assurance, insects have emerged as a promising solution due to their exceptional nutritional profile, rapid reproduction rates, and low environmental impact. In the present pilot study, 10% of a soybean meal-based diet was replaced by adult mosquitoes harvested from rice fields. The objective was to assess the effect of this partial substitution on meat quality aspects and consumer acceptance. A total of 40 Cobb hybrid broiler chickens were randomly placed in a control and a mosquito-fed group. The study was conducted for 42 days and carcass physicochemical, nutritional, and microbiological characteristics, as well as sensory attributes were evaluated. Overall, results regarding quality attributes were comparable between the control and the treatment group. The organoleptic evaluation showed that the thighs from the mosquito-fed group had the highest overall consumer acceptance. These outcomes indicate that mosquitoes could be successfully used as a protein source for broiler feed without compromising the quality and acceptability of the meat. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper explores agro-ecological implications of climate change and gendered adaptations in Northern Ghana. Drawing on feminist political ecology, sequential mix-method design was used to collect socio-economic and livelihood data through a survey of 300 smallholder farmers. Paired sample t test, simple linear regression and descriptive statistics were used to determined yield variation, gendered perception, and adaptive capacities to climate change. Three focus group discussions and 15 key informant interviews were conducted to validate the survey results. Findings show that climate change has threatened the sustainability of local livelihoods with a significant drop in food production over the last 15 years. Adaptation to climate change in the study area is polarized by gender, affecting productivity. This is because men perceive climate change and its impacts differently from women. Men were likely to adapt changing methods of farming and improvement in storage capacity, while women were likely to adapt migration and livelihood diversification. Policy toward building resilience to the impacts of climate change should recognize and adopt these gender adaptive capacities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Short-term climate fluctuations can have a significant impact on the stability of food resource prices, thus threatening food security, even in cases where the crop production system shows good adaptation to climate change and/or increasing average yields over time. This paper illustrates, in detail, a statistical approach aimed at verifying whether the variation of the crop production system vulnerability to climate fluctuation exhibits a trend over time. These methods were applied to the case study of wheat grown in the Abruzzo region (Italy). The results show that, although the wheat crop yield still shows ongoing growth, the correlation between climate fluctuations and yield oscillations exhibits a systematic increase over the past sixty years. Such an increase in climate-related production fluctuations may represent a disturbing element for market equilibria and be potentially harmful for the various economic subjects involved at various scales, such as producers, distributors, investors/financial traders, and final consumers. The statistical approach illustrated provides a framework for monitoring climate impacts and also provides the basis for building up statistical forecasting models to support informed decision making in agricultural management and financial planning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the agri‐food chain, while the impact of producers and consumers on sustainability has been well studied, food processing has been less explored. This position paper aims to discuss the potential of food processing to address all food and nutrition security (FNS) outcomes in order to achieve improved food system sustainability. First, FNS dimensions and the four pillars of agro‐food industry sustainability are defined, with a focus on ultra‐processed foods. Second, the food matrix concept is developed as a new paradigm to holistically address all FNS. It is concluded that food processing should become more involved in circular food systems and bioeconomy, and that we need to relocate food production, processing, and consumption to be more aligned with regional food production specificities. For this, minimal processing to preserve food matrices should be preferred. Therefore, the strong current tendency to develop reductionist and siloed innovative solutions to improve the sustainability of food systems should be questioned. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The construction industry is a key player in global economic development and assumes a critical position in multifaceted demand for land resources through urbanisation process such as housing and infrastructure development. This pressure plays significant role in decimating available land resources for agricultural activities and has great implication for sustainable food production. This study examined land use change process in Ile-Ife using Landsat Image at 32m resolution over a period of 2002 to 2023. The features were classified into Baresurface, Built-up, Cultivation, Vegetation, and Waterbody with respective area of coverage of 0.9%, 21.0%, 30.3%, 47.4% and 0.3% at the baseline Year 2002. Findings showed that there was significant percentage increase from 2002 to 2023 of 166.7% for Baresurface (2.4%) and 106.2% for Built-up (43.3%). On the contrary, Cultivation area reduced to 22.2%, with a percentage decimation of 26.7%, Vegetation was reduced to 31.9% with a percentage reduction of 32.7% and Waterbody to 0.2% with a percentage reduction of 33.3%. Notably, majority of the percentage differences occurred between 2002 and 2014, which is largely attributable to increase in minimum wage. By implication, substantial arable land areas for cultivation and vegetation towards food production have been overtaken by built-up area and construction activities without any visible effort at exploring alternatives for agricultural practices towards food production. A concerted effort is required to stem the tide in ensuring sustainable food production.